The legislature finds and determines that integrated systems, including railways, highways and airways, are necessary in order to meet the economic and energy needs of the citizens of the state, both now and in the future. The legislature finds that a portion of the present railroad system in the state does not provide adequate service to citizens of the state. The legislature further finds and determines that it is in the best interest of the state to establish a rail service assistance program in order to preserve and revitalize essential rail service in the state.